As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals suddenly became unemployed without any warning. With many American families living paycheck to paycheck and having little money in savings, the sudden loss of a job can cause a personal financial crisis. You may be tempted to give up and simply stop paying some of your bills that might not cause any immediate problems, such as alimony, also known as spousal support. However, alimony is not an obligation that should be ignored. It is better to address your lack of alimony funds as soon as possible with an attorney. There are options available to you.
Keep Paying While You Seek Help
The loss of employment does not suddenly excuse you from alimony orders. If possible, talk to your ex-spouse and see if you can reach a mutual agreement about temporary changes to support because of your unemployment. If you are not able to do this or cannot come to an agreement, it is in your best interest to continue to pay alimony exactly as ordered while you work on possible solutions to your financial problems. Failing to pay alimony, no matter your own reasoning, can lead to penalties imposed by the court for failing to comply with your alimony order.
One solution available that can help is a request to modify your alimony order. To relieve yourself of some financial burden and still comply with alimony orders, it is imperative that you act quickly and seek the advice of an experienced Charlotte lawyer.
Alimony Modifications In North Carolina
When a judge issues an order for spousal support, they anticipate that it will be in place until the expiration date. The court does, however, recognize that there are times, such as the loss of a job, where the ex-spouse may need to modify the order. North Carolina law gives you the legal right to ask for changes to spousal support under certain circumstances. Since your income may have changed significantly since you became unemployed, some type of modification will likely be approved by the court. You can discuss what a realistic modification might be with your attorney.
Have You Lost Your Job And Are Liable For Alimony? Contact A Knowledgeable Charlotte Attorney
Losing a job can be one of the most stressful times in your life. Despite your stress and lack of funds, you are still legally liable for paying spousal support according to your court order. The attorneys at Blood Law have years of experience helping clients modify their alimony orders when they become unemployed. Contact us today to schedule your case review with a knowledgeable Charlotte lawyer by calling (704) 286-0570 or use our confidential online contact form. Remember that the sooner you reach out, the sooner you might get a modification and be in compliance with court orders.